In a bid to enhance passenger amenities and offer a unique dining experience, Western Railway has proposed setting up a rail coach restaurant at Veraval Railway Station in Gujarat.
The Bhavnagar Division has invited an Expression of Interest (EOI) for the development and operation of the facility. The project will be offered on a 10-year contract, allowing private players to participate in station-based hospitality services.
As per the proposal, around 416.50 square metres of land within the station premises has been earmarked for the project. The concept involves converting decommissioned railway coaches into themed restaurants—a model already popular at several stations across the country.
The initiative is part of efforts to upgrade station infrastructure, boost non-fare revenue, and improve the overall experience for passengers and visitors.
Veraval station sees heavy footfall due to its proximity to the Somnath Temple. It is served by major trains such as the Vande Bharat Express, Somnath Superfast Express, and Saurashtra Janta Express.
Meanwhile, in Ahmedabad, a similar rail coach restaurant is under construction at Ambli Railway Station and is expected to open soon. This will be the first such facility in the Ahmedabad Division, following successful implementations at stations like Bandra Terminus, Andheri, Borivali, Ratlam, and Rajkot.